Backstory Five years ago, Hurwitz injured her back while hiking. She had physical therapy and has a doctor's OK to exercise but says her stiff legs trigger new backaches.

Current workouts A 45-minute Spinning class, 2-mile jog or 30-minute elliptical session up to three times a week, plus once-a-week total-body strength training

Routine revamp The tightness is likely due to hip, hamstring and back muscles compensating for weak abs or butt muscles, so refocus workouts to strengthen the underperformers and loosen overtaxed hams and hips.

Strength training Try to fit it in three nonconsecutive days a week. Add the Bird-Dog to strengthen the butt, lower back and core: On all fours, back flat, extend right leg back and left arm forward, hips parallel to floor. Hold eight seconds. Repeat on other side. Do six reps.

Stretching Shoot for 30 minutes three times a week after cardio. A hamstring helper: Lie on back, knees bent, feet flat. Raise right leg to ceiling with knee slightly bent, holding back of leg with hands 10 to 30 seconds. Release; repeat twice. Switch sides.